What have you accomplished in your professional life/career since your 40 Under 40 selection?
Since my surprise selection in 2012, I have built a successful litigation boutique firm, representing people and businesses in many different types of lawsuits, including business disputes, “bet-the-company” litigation, legal malpractice, consumer law cases, personal injuries, insurance disputes, and property damage suits.
I’ve been elected and reelected to the State Bar’s Board of Governors, its legislative body. I have been named a Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2018 and 2019.
The most rewarding work I’ve done has been to help people assert their rights and obtain justice in the face of extreme opposition.
What accomplishments, milestones, or endeavors have you attained in your personal life since your 40 Under 40 selection?
In 2017, I married my dynamo wife, Rachel Wilberding, and in 2018 Rachel gave birth to our daughter, who amazes us every day.
Additionally, I completed most of a 200-hour yoga teacher training and have taught some yoga in a business setting — not as crazy as it sounds.
If you were to “do it all over again,” what (if anything) would you do differently throughout your career?
I wouldn’t have been afraid of the courtroom my first few years in practice. I’d say to my young self, “Judges are just people, so speak to them just as you would anyone else — with a bit more deference — and don’t be afraid of losing. Be extremely well-prepared for each appearance and if the judge decides against you, there was nothing more you could have done.”
How did your 40 Under 40 selection help your career?
It helped establish my credibility as a young attorney, led indirectly to my next career move, and helped me make connections that have led to great clients and big settlements.
What is something that you have a new passion for since the time of your induction — either professionally or personally?
Professionally, my passion for the courtroom and arguing my clients’ positions has grown along with my skill.
Personally, my passion is my family, plain and simple.
Based on your experience, do you have any advice for today’s young professionals (under 40)?
Find work that interests you. You can be passionate about the cause you’re working for but if the day-to-day work you’re doing doesn’t light you up, your work life is going to be a long, hard slog. But if you go to work excited for the tasks you’ll be doing, the day will pass quickly and you’ll be back to your family, friends, and hobbies energized and proud of what you accomplished that day.
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